Wearing a retainer is an essential part of the smile-straightening process. Although braces are no longer required, this additional oral device offers stability to teeth that can easily shift out of alignment again if you’re not careful. But over time, it can become less effective, so how can you tell when to replace it? Keep reading to learn more about the signs to watch out for.
How Often Should You Replace Your Retainer?
To make sure that your retainer is working effectively, it’s best to replace it every 1-3 years if you are wearing a removable, clear appliance, or every 7-8 years if you have a removable, acrylic one.
Your orthodontist will recommend the appropriate retainer for your needs, as many options are available. It is important that you take proper care of yours so that it will last as long as possible.
Which Signs Indicate It’s Time for a New Retainer?
You may be unaware of what you should watch for as you continue to wear your retainer. It’s natural for wear and tear to occur, but failing to acknowledge the following signs could pose a problem for your smile:
- Your Retainer is Damaged: If a crack or chip forms in your aligner, you’ll need to seek a replacement. Accidentally dropping it can easily cause minor or even major damage. Failing to replace it can cause bacteria to enter the tiny areas and cause cavities and gum disease to develop. Also, you risk harming your soft oral tissues because of the sharp edges caused by the damage.
- Your Retainer Doesn’t Fit: It’s common for retainers to become loose as time passes. Regular wear and tear cause them to no longer fit as snugly as they should, which can be a problem since the goal is to keep teeth in place. No matter what kind of retainer you wear, make sure never to use hot water when cleaning it, and do not apply any harsh chemicals, as this can warp them.
- Your Retainer Has Excessive Buildup: If you’re not properly cleaning your retainer, you’ll notice excessive bacterial buildup over time. Keeping it clean is the most effective way to avoid this problem, but if you notice that no amount of cleaning is enough, it’s time to replace your retainer.
Your orthodontist is here to make sure the results of your orthodontic treatment remain successful, so if you notice a change in the look or feel of your retainer, don’t wait to inquire about a new one.
About the Practice
Treehouse Orthodontics consists of four orthodontists who go above and beyond to provide top-tier service and care to patients of all ages. Offering reliable and comfortable retainers to keep teeth in their new and proper place, these oral devices require optimal attention if they are to last as long as possible. If you notice that your retainer is no longer fitting properly or has become damaged, visit our website or call one of our offices to speak to a member of our team.